What is the symbolic significance if Lake Oolagah?

They reach Lake Oologah, the Lake o' the Cherokees, one of the few diamonds of the Cherokee Nation. All of a sudden, Turtle cries out "Mama," but Taylor only sees a gas station and a cemetery. The lake seems like purifying waters, the idea of home to Turtle. Taylor feels life she is exploring a part of Turtle that remains so foreign to her.